1. Whitney Houston – Super Bowl XXV (1991)
Whitney Houston’s rendition of the national anthem at the Super Bowl XXV is widely considered the gold standard. Amid the tense backdrop of the Gulf War, her voice carried a sense of both triumph and unity that resonated deeply with Americans. With Houston’s effortless powerhouse vocals and her famous white tracksuit, this performance gave a powerful message of hope and strength during a difficult time.
2. Lady Gaga – Super Bowl 50 (2016)
With her powerful voice and emotional delivery, Lady Gaga’s performance at Super Bowl 50 struck a patriotic chord. Gaga, dressed in a sparkling red suit, delivered each note with intensity and passion. She honored the traditional melody while adding her own emotional flair, making it one of the most memorable anthems of recent Super Bowl history.
3. Beyoncé – Presidential Inauguration (2013)
Beyoncé’s rendition at President Obama’s second inauguration was pristine, powerful, and full of grace. Despite a bit of controversy over whether it was live or pre-recorded, her rendition was undeniably moving. Standing in front of the Capitol, her soulful delivery gave the anthem a contemporary elegance that matched the moment’s historic importance.
4. Jimi Hendrix – Woodstock (1969)
Few performances of the national anthem are as controversial or as iconic as Jimi Hendrix’s guitar solo at Woodstock. Hendrix reimagined the anthem into a rock-and-roll protest statement, complete with the sounds of war woven into the chords. His electric performance captured the rebellious spirit of the time, becoming a musical symbol for peace, freedom, and anti-war sentiment.
5. Marvin Gaye – 1983 NBA All-Star Game
Marvin Gaye took a different approach, bringing soul and smooth R&B rhythms to the anthem. At the 1983 NBA All-Star Game, he turned the anthem into a slow-jam with a beat that had the crowd clapping along. It was smooth, sultry, and utterly unforgettable—a performance so unique that it redefined what an anthem performance could be.
6. Jennifer Hudson – Super Bowl XLIII (2009)
Jennifer Hudson’s triumphant return to the spotlight after a personal tragedy was nothing short of heroic. Her powerful voice filled the stadium, and the emotion in her rendition was palpable. This performance was not only a stunning vocal display but also a testament to resilience, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
7. Faith Hill – Super Bowl XXXIV (2000)
Faith Hill’s performance at Super Bowl XXXIV is remembered for its elegance and emotional delivery. She kept it classic, but her heartfelt rendition and flawless control showed the power of simplicity. Hill’s performance stands as a reminder that sometimes, less really is more, especially when paired with a voice that beautiful.
8. Kelly Clarkson – Super Bowl XLVI (2012)
Kelly Clarkson gave an anthem performance that felt effortlessly genuine. Known for her powerhouse vocals, she performed with clarity, energy, and humility. Clarkson’s voice soared through the stadium, and her genuine connection with the anthem and audience alike made this performance an instant favorite.
9. Aretha Franklin & Aaron Neville – Super Bowl XL (2006)
Aretha Franklin and Aaron Neville’s duet was a blend of soul, gospel, and warmth. With Dr. John on the piano, the performance had an unpretentious sincerity that only these icons could pull off. Aretha’s gospel-infused vocals paired with Neville’s soft, emotive voice turned the anthem into a soulful and heartfelt experience.
10. Demi Lovato – Super Bowl LIV (2020)
Demi Lovato delivered a stunning, pitch-perfect rendition at Super Bowl LIV, marking her comeback to the big stage. Her vocal control and clear, powerful delivery won her instant praise. The way she handled the anthem, giving it just the right amount of emotion and flair, showed her growth as an artist and made this a memorable performance.
11. Cher – Super Bowl XXXIII (1999)
Cher’s performance at Super Bowl XXXIII was bold and strong, much like the icon herself. With her powerful, instantly recognizable voice, she gave a rendition that was as memorable as it was unique. Cher’s voice captured both pride and confidence, making her performance stand out as one of the most unique anthems in Super Bowl history.
12. Renée Fleming – Super Bowl XLVIII (2014)
Opera singer Renée Fleming’s performance brought a touch of classical elegance to Super Bowl XLVIII. As the first opera singer to perform the anthem at a Super Bowl, Fleming’s beautiful soprano voice gave the anthem a regal quality. Her flawless control and unique take on the anthem made it one of the most stunning, classically-inspired renditions ever.
